CHECKLISTS

Posted on June 1, 2018 by randscallawayffm

Timothy and Titus – Inconspicuous Leadership

1 Timothy 5 checklistI am a list maker…even in retirement from my secular work. For me, what doesn’t get listed, doesn’t get done. It is also very rewarding for me to check that item off the list when it is accomplished. The list has a progression of priorities. One task cannot happen until another task is completed. And so life goes with my lists guiding my behavior and productivity.

As I journal each morning in my conversational prayer with God, the Father, His Spirit guides me to make another list that helps me to mature and grow in Him. I am convicted of some of those “fruits of the Spirit” that I have not tended to or cultivated, have ignored or left undone. His Holy Spirit redirects my thoughts and helps me form a list of tasks that will help me improve my behavior. “Keep a close check on yourself”, writes Paul to Timothy. For me, that means to make a spiritual checklist that keeps me in close contact with the will and purpose of our Father, God and helps me to grow closer to Him.

We can do nothing of significance without God. I am convinced that He guides us to all things that are good for our growth and aid our learning about Him and how He works. Paul also gives Timothy sound advice about how to treat those whom God has called to lead with character traits with another list of how to lead. This list still applies to us today. The theme of this episode seems to be; Know God, Know Yourself, Know The Message, Know Your Audience. Our deeds, good and bad, will be evident. Be driven by God’s love in us.

1 Timothy 5, The Message

17-18 Give a bonus to leaders who do a good job, especially the ones who work hard at preaching and teaching. Scripture tells us, “Don’t muzzle a working ox” and “A worker deserves his pay.”

19 Don’t listen to a complaint against a leader that isn’t backed up by two or three responsible witnesses.

20 If anyone falls into sin, call that person on the carpet. Those who are inclined that way will know right off they can’t get by with it.

21-23 God and Jesus and angels all back me up in these instructions. Carry them out without favoritism, without taking sides. Don’t appoint people to church leadership positions too hastily. If a person is involved in some serious sins, you don’t want to become an unwitting accomplice. In any event, keep a close check on yourself. And don’t worry too much about what the critics will say. Go ahead and drink a little wine, for instance; it’s good for your digestion, good medicine for what ails you.

24-25 The sins of some people are blatant and march them right into court. The sins of others don’t show up until much later. The same with good deeds. Some you see right off, but none are hidden forever.

1 Timothy 5 check yourselfLEADERSHIP PRINCIPLE #6: Keep a Close Check on Yourself

Leadership Characteristics –

–Fully rely on God. Trust Him with all you are and all you have. We are His. All we have is His.
–Ask God “if there is anything offensive to you, cleanse me.” as the Psalmist prayed.
–Repent with a heart and mind not wanting to return to the old life.
–Look full into the face of Jesus, our Master, Lord and Savior with laser focus so we know what direction to take next.
–“Keep a close check on yourself.” Avoid, “he did it, I can, too” or “my sin is not as bad as his sin” or “everybody’s doing it” mentality.
–Ask God for wisdom, insight and understanding.
–Allow God’s transformation to continue in our lives.
–Ask God to make your lists of to BE and to DO. HE will prioritize your lists in ways you cannot imagine! Where He guides, He provides help all along the journey.
–Do all in a Spirit of love for God and others.
–Care enough to confront others with God’s love and concern for their spiritual well-being and growth.

Warning   The things on our spiritual check list can never be crossed off because we’ll be working on them our whole lives. By listing we are reminding ourselves of what we need to work on to “keep a close check” on our lives. It is only by The Atonement of Jesus Christ can we accomplish anything of eternal significance.

Dear Heavenly Father,
You have convinced me that we must do spiritual “business” with You each day to improve our being in You. Thank you for helping us on this journey. Thank you for Your Holy Spirit that points out things in our behavior that could cause us to crash…before crashing. Thank you for always being with us, guiding and directing, loving and protecting and challenging us to grow and bear Fruit. Continue to transform me. Transform your church. Transform the world through your church.
In Jesus Name, Amen

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I IS FOR THE INSPIRED WORD OF GOD—TRUTH!

Posted on August 21, 2026 by randscallawayffm

When bad things happen or bad things are said to us and behind our backs to others, it is the Goodness of God and the power of God’s help who keeps us from falling into an abys of all the ways to think and react that are not of God.  He uses these earthbound trials and tribulations that happen in a fallen, imperfect world to teach us the lessons we must learn about God, His Son, Jesus, His Holy Spirit living in us along with our relationships to God and others in the world.  Created in His own image, God provides all we need to become more like Him in every way when our full attention is given to Him.  HE is the source of all that is good for God alone is Good.

Psalm 119:65-72, The Message

ט Teth

Be good to your servant, God;
    be as good as your Word.
Train me in good common sense;
    I’m thoroughly committed to living your way.
Before I learned to answer you, I wandered all over the place,
    but now I’m in step with your Word.
You are good, and the source of good;
    train me in your goodness.

The godless spread lies about me,
    but I focus my attention on what you are saying;
They’re bland as a bucket of lard,
    while I dance to the tune of your revelation.
My troubles turned out all for the best—
    they forced me to learn from your textbook.
Truth from your mouth means more to me
    than striking it rich in a gold mine.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

We will become closer to all God wants us to be when we take more joy in deflecting all the bad that is said or done by other human and remember to look to God for wisdom.  When our desire to please God first, more than anyone else on earth, He will give us the right response delivered with love and trust.  Our joy is not in devaluing someone else for that is not how God treats us.  Those whose lives are led by evil will soon perish from all the distractions, deception, and destructive behaviors done to make themselves feel better about themselves. Pray for all who are bonded to evil. It is not God’s desire that anyone perish, so it shouldn’t be our desire either.

“Only God is Good”, says Jesus to the rich young ruler arrogantly seeking to be not only good but the best, thinking that by obey all the laws he’d been taught he would be “good”. Jesus knew the heart of this young man and knew that if he told him what he really needed—to lose self to gain eternal life—he would listen but not be able to lose the grip his wealth had over him. Our all wise, all-knowing God knows exactly who we are and what we need to grow to be more like Him in every way—the lessons are timely and forever until we see Jesus face to face in all His glory.

Warren Wiersbe, Bible Scholar and author, comments;

“The emphasis in this section of the psalm is on what is good in the life of the believer. The Hebrew word tob is used six times in these eight verses and can be translated “good, pleasant, beneficial, precious, delightful, and right.” God does what is good because God is good and because what He does is “according to [His] word” (v. 65) and His Word is good (v. 39). Neither His character nor His Word will ever change, so we can say: God is good all the time. God does what is good (vv. 65, 66). God overrules evil and from it brings good (vv. 67–71). God uses the Word to show us good (v. 72).” Wiersbe Study Bible

God is Good all the time and is truly with us all the time to demonstrate His Goodness along with His mercy and grace.  God showed just how much and how deep our Father’s love is for us by sending His One and Only Son, Jesus to save us and set us free from sin and self.  God wants only the best for us.  Remember that when today brings wondering—hold fast to all that is true and real—God alone.

“Let the morning bring word of your unfailing love, for all my trust is in you.” (a verse I rely on daily from Psalm 143.  It is good to read the entire psalm if you are seeking peace and remembrance of who God is—Good.

Lord,

You are so, so good to me, it humbles me.  Let me meditate all day long just on your goodness and remember all you have done for all who believe in you with committed hearts.  To you be the glory, honor, and praise! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In Jesus Name, Amen

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H IS FOR HOLY

Posted on August 19, 2026 by randscallawayffm

THE ABC’S OF GOD’S LOVE AND CARE

We are not holy merely because God created us in His own image; for we live in an unholy world that has been contaminated by sin. Sin was first introduced by the first humans created, Adam and Eve, who fell for the cunning manipulations of the Deceiver who made them think they could be God.  Satan tried and failed in his own venture to be God with thoughts of replacing God.  He was promptly kicked out of heaven for trying.  So, with his collected army of demons with unholy hate for God it is his goal to avenge himself by battling all created in God’s image with distracting us from all that is God to all that is evil. 

Satan is called the Deceiver by Jesus who knows him well and made known in the  Revelation as the Destroyer.  He works daily with limited power to distract, deceive, and manipulate our thinking with the goal to destroy our faith in and our relationship with God in Jesus Name. 

We are not holy unless God makes us holy.  God is the One and Only God who is Holy so He alone is worthy of all our praise.  God is the One and Only we can trust as Truth for He is Truth.  To be in relationship with our Holy and Perfect God in all His ways begins with believing in Jesus, His Son.

“I AM the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Jesus, John 14:6 (Emphasis on I AM are mine)

Psalm 119:57-64, The Message

ח Heth

Because you have satisfied me, God, I promise
    to do everything you say.
I beg you from the bottom of my heart: smile,
    be gracious to me just as you promised.
When I took a long, careful look at your ways,
    I got my feet back on the trail you blazed.
I was up at once, didn’t drag my feet,
    was quick to follow your orders.
The wicked hemmed me in—there was no way out—
    but not for a minute did I forget your plan for me.
I get up in the middle of the night to thank you;
    your decisions are so right, so true—I can’t wait till morning!
I’m a friend and companion of all who fear you,
    of those committed to living by your rules.
Your love, God, fills the earth!
    Train me to live by your counsel.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

“God’s people remember His name. The name of God—Jehovah, Yahweh—is full of meaning and power. To translate it only as “I AM” is to miss much of the dynamic that it contains. To remember His name is to encourage our hearts to trust Him, obey Him, and not be afraid. “Those who know Your name will put their trust in You; for You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You” (Psalm 9:10). To remember God’s name is to ask Him to remember us and work on our behalf. We must do this when we are in the darkness and afraid (119:55), or when we are lonely and discouraged” (Psalm 42:6). —Warren Wiersbe, Wiersbe Study Bible

We all have times that we fear or at least wonder what lies ahead for us daily.  We try to prepare for the challenges in life with the human resources we have; but we need God’s power above all the troubles and trials this world presents.  We need help to respond to trials, fears, wonderings, sufferings, and tests in holy ways.  Only God who is holy can make us holy in response to this world.  Trust Him.  “Fear not, for I AM”, God reminds us throughout His Word, from Genesis to Revelation!  

Our faith is built on nothing less that Jesus blood and righteousness, we sing but it is our committed trust in God who never fails and makes us holy, not perfect, but holy before Him.  Jesus reconciled us to God.  Holy is the work of God. It is God’s Holy Spirit living in us as believers who does His work of molding and shaping us to be all He created us to be—like HIM in every way.

We avoid becoming “holier than thou” as we humbly walk with God through all of life’s journey because we have no right to boast for it was Jesus who did all, paid it all, and gave us hope of eternal life by sacrificing all of Himself for all our sins. Only Jesus did for us what we could not do for ourselves—reconcile us to God! We didn’t deserve God’s mercy nor can we earn His grace.  Yes, no reason to boast here!  “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) All glory to God!

“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) But “not for a minute” are we forsaken—we are forgiven as a demonstration of His love, mercy, and grace.  We love and serve a Holy God who alone is lifted up and worthy of all the glory, honor, and praise.  Trust God, Fear not; He knows what He is doing!

Lord,

Thank you for this timely psalm of thoughts that prompted peace that replaces my fears of the unknown at this very moment. Cleanse my heart, renew my mind, refresh my soul, and restore the joy of your salvation at work within us.  Create in me a clean heart.  Fill me with Your Holy Spirit in ways that shine your Light to others.

Light of the world
You stepped down into darkness
Opened my eyes let me see
Beauty that made this heart adore You
Hope of a life spent with You

And here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that you’re my God
You’re altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me…

(Light of the Word, by Chris Tomlin)

In Jesus Name, Amen

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G IS FOR GRATITUDE

Posted on August 18, 2026 by randscallawayffm

I am using our alphabet to correspond to the Hebrew alphabet acrostic as a way to break up the longest Psalm in the Bible into bite sized pieces for understanding and internal consumption. So far, this is working beautifully as God’s Holy Spirit teaches us how to humbly walk with God in all His ways.  The more we read His Word the more we hunger to read and understand more.  God’s Word is Light in a dark world that centers all things on self. 

Notice the word, “remember”,used often in this Psalm as well as throughout the Bible.  That particular word was most pronounced as Moses delivered the first Word of God, known to all as the Ten Commandments.  Remember was a huge part of these commandments as God wanted them to remember who He was—the One who brought them out of the Egyption world of worshipping many gods, as slaves driven unmercifully to work beyond human abilities, to be free to worship Him alone.  He not only set them free by powerful, miraculous acts that brought the Egyptians to their knees and leaders and their soldiers to a watery grave; God promised a new land to go to and live well—if only they would remember—in gratitude—for all He had delivered them from—slavery to darkness. 

When we remember what God has done for us, what is our first response?  Do we take time to remember daily the greatness and majesty of God?  Do we take advantage of God and forget to thank Him?  Or do we humble and gratefully “hang on His words to us for dear life”?  His Words are Life!  Pause to give thanks.

Psalm 119:49-56, The Message

ז Zayin

Remember what you said to me, your servant—
    I hang on to these words for dear life!
These words hold me up in bad times;
    yes, your promises rejuvenate me.
The haters hate me without mercy,
    but I don’t budge from your revelation.
I watch for your ancient landmark words,
    and know I’m on the right track.
But when I see the wicked ignore your directions,
    I’m beside myself with anger.
I set your instructions to music
    and sing them as I walk this pilgrim way.
I meditate on your name all night, God,
    treasuring your revelation, O God.
Still, I walk through a rain of derision
    because I live by your Word and counsel.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

The Psalmist is presenting a wonderful personal testimony, filled with HOPE, as he remembers all that God has done and is doing in his life. Gratitude flows from our hearts as we remember.

Think about it –when we remember God for who He is first and then recall all He has done in and through us in the past—HOPE rises within us!  Hope of real, abundant and eternal life was given through the gift of God’s Son, Jesus who died on a cross for all who were and are slaves to sin and imprisoned in darkness of evil. Jesus who was without sin, was the true Light who came for one purpose.  He was sent into a darkened world to stand in the sinners’ place for the punishment for all the sins of the world.  Sin has to rectified. Sin debt has to be paid.

It is Jesus, God’s Son, who willingly and obediently took the abuse of mocking, beatings beyond recognition, then suffered the same shame and humiliation of a criminal caught up in sin and then nailed to a cross on a hill for all to see publicly.  Jesus took all our sins on His bleeding shoulders, the sins that pierced the heart of God, and carried them to the cross.  Jesus was the once and for all sacrifice for all who would believe then and now—all the world, not just a select group—all who would believe—and remember.

But that’s not all!  When sin was paid in full, God looked down on His Son who died and with the power that created the world with mere words—God raised His Son to life—sins of the world removed but with the scars still evident from Jesus’ work of salvation for all who would believe.  Yes, we remember.  With humbled hearts, we remember.  Let me catch my breath as I remember the truth of what Jesus did that I could not do for myself—remove all my sin.

 “I meditate on your name all night, God, treasuring your revelation, O God.”  That is probably why I wake to your instructions set to music each morning.  I believe.  I love you back.  I am grateful beyond words because I remember…

Lord,

Light of the world
You stepped down into darkness
Opened my eyes let me see
Beauty that made this heart adore You
Hope of a life spent with You

And here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that you’re my God
You’re altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me…(Chris Tomlin)
 

Thank you, Lord for dying and rising again in victory to set us free from darkness.  Thank you for saving my soul and making me whole.  To you be all glory forever!

In Jesus Name, Amen

King of all days
Oh so highly exalted
Glorious in heaven above
Humbly you came to the earth you created
All for love’s sake became poor

[Chorus]
Here I am to worship
Here I am to bow down
Here I am to say that you’re my God
You’re altogether lovely
Altogether worthy
Altogether wonderful to me

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F IS FOR FIRST—

Posted on August 17, 2026 by randscallawayffm

SEEK GOD FIRST FOR HE WAS, IS, AND ALWAYS THE FIRST ONE TO LOVE US

God is my first thought when I wake each morning.  He is my first line of defense, the first one I run to when chased or mocked for my faith in Him.  God was the first one to teach me real love as a young new believer, a love that has no conditions, is not earned, or based on what I do.  God is Love and His love and is forever!  Why trust anyone else on earth? 

God is the one who sent a part of Himself, His One and Only Son to die in my place my sins.  God is the One with all power, the power that created our world, and with that power resurrected Our Savior on the third day so that His glory could be seen and heard and His Sovereignty believed. Jesus was His Name who God made King of kings and Lord of lords.  Jesus appeared upon resurrection to the women first because they were the first to come and serve the body or their Lord and Friend. It was Jesus who had given women worth in relating to them before death and the One  that gave them the first mission to go and tell others of His resurrection!  This was so others would know He was indeed alive and well—just as He said He would be!

Jesus—there’s power in just saying His Name for it is His Name, Jesus that makes the enemy and his demons tremble before God.  It is Jesus who causes the demons to flee from harassing the children of God who believe in Him with all that is in us.  

Psalm 119, The Message

ו Waw 41-48

Let your love, God, shape my life
    with salvation, exactly as you promised;
Then I’ll be able to stand up to mockery
    because I trusted your Word.
Don’t ever deprive me of truth, not ever—
    your commandments are what I depend on.
Oh, I’ll guard with my life what you’ve revealed to me,
    guard it now, guard it ever;
And I’ll stride freely through wide open spaces
    as I look for your truth and your wisdom;
Then I’ll tell the world what I find,
    speak out boldly in public, unembarrassed.
I cherish your commandments—oh, how I love them!—
    relishing every fragment of your counsel.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Like the Psalmist writes and sing; it is HIS LOVE and WISDOM that should be the FIRST sought to shape our lives with His salvation so we, too can stand up to mockery for our faith in God.  It is in seeking God first and trusting His Word that will give us the boldness we need to stand firm and continue to speak boldly in His Name.

Lord,

Thank you for your Word that speaks volumes to us about who you are. Thank you for providing direction through your commands so we know how to walk with you in ways that give you glory and is for our own good.  Thank for ways to relate to each other and to you because of your teachings. Thank you for telling us what to embrace and what to avoid at the cost of our very lives.  Thank you for warning us of the enemy’s attempts to distract and deceive us. Thank you for the power you give to us to do what you say.  Most of all thank you for saving our souls and making us whole. Thank you for being with us always and loving us forever! 

In Jesus Name, Amen

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E IS FOR EYES FOR GOD ALONE!

Posted on August 15, 2026 by randscallawayffm

“Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see,
Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see.
For there’s a Father up above looking down in tender love,
Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see.”

It’s been said, and quoted often, that the “eyes are the windows to our minds and souls”.  I can attest to that thought for it the eyes I looked into of my students when I taught public school.  No matter their background, ethnicity, or current home situation; looking into their eyes told me the level of their understanding for what I was teaching.  If I saw a blank, questioning look, I knew another explanation using different words needed to be said.  If I saw dancing eyes, I knew they were thinking about playing as soon as I turned my eyes away from them! 😊  If I saw a steady gaze, it meant they wanted to know more.  Sad eyes told me volumes about the readiness of their learning due to something happening beyond our school classroom.  But the eyes definitely were important “tools” for the teacher who want students to really learn.

As teachers, we also know students will not “get it” or understand fully the first time; so the lesson is presented in a variety of ways so the concept is repeated, internalized, and becomes a part of their thinking.  How did we learn to teach this way?  By the Master Teacher Himself, Son of Man/Son of God, who came to our world of imperfect humanity to teach, heal, convict, save, correct, comfort, and compel his students to turn their eyes fully back to God for Jesus is not only the Teacher but the author and finisher of our faith.

“Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face

And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,

In the Light of His glory and grace.” 

Psalm 119, The Message

ה He

God, teach me lessons for living
    so I can stay the course.
Give me insight so I can do what you tell me—
    my whole life one long, obedient response.
Guide me down the road of your commandments;
    I love traveling this freeway!
Give me an appetite for your words of wisdom,
    and not for piling up loot.
Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets,
    invigorate me on the pilgrim way.
Affirm your promises to me—
    promises made to all who fear you.
Deflect the harsh words of my critics—
    but what you say is always so good.
See how hungry I am for your counsel;
    preserve my life through your righteous ways!

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

But we need help, Jesus knows that, so God sent the third part of Himself to come live within us with power and truth as soon as we say, “Yes, I believe. Forgive me of my sins.  I surrender all to you.”  New life begins with redemption from Jesus Christ, our Savior.  He will continue to transform us as long as our eyes are fully focused with attention on the Master Teacher, Jesus Christ, our Lord!

The Psalmist is asking for wisdom and help to keep his eyes focused on the ways of God with deliverance from all things of this world that distract our attention, shading our relationship with God who is the Light and Goodness.  Without the Light, we will not grow but soon wither and fade.  The Psalmist knows that and we do, too!

Therefore, may the psalmist prayer become our prayer; “Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets, invigorate me on the pilgrim way.”  God promises to help us and He does!  I’ve seen it happen with my own eyes!

Lord,

We are so easily distracted, overwhelmed and over stimulated by all the trinkets and toys of our generation along with the very aggressive ads that demand we buy them no matter if it causes us bankruptcy in the near future.  What is worse, however, is the bankruptcy of our souls when we sell ourselves to get whatever is the newest on the market.  Oh Lord, help us to be wise with skills for living as better stewards of all you have provided, which will make us better stewards of our very souls given to you!  Save us from ourselves. Direct our eyes, ears, hands, and feet to you as we surrender to your will and leave our frivolous will behind.  I have decided to follow you, no turning back, no turning back…

In Jesus Name, Amen

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D IS FOR DILIGENCE IN THE DAILY PURSUIT OF GOD’S WISDOM

Posted on August 14, 2026 by randscallawayffm

The prophet Micah, whom we quote often in Daily Manna, speaks for God.  He tells us what God requires of us.  The words are simple but living them will require the Presence of God’s Holy Spirit living in us, guiding us to truth while prompting us to thing, speak, and walk on the right path with God along with the power to do what God says. 

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8, NIV

The Core Commands

  • Act justly: Treat all people with fairness and honesty. Stand up for what is right.  Throughout the gospels, Jesus demonstrates the love of God with true justice for all as He walked the earth.  He was sent to be “the Word of God made flesh” to live among all humanity for a while to teach all what it means to “act justly” with no condemnation—only correction and restoration to those willing to receive and believe Him.
  • Love mercy: Show deep care, forgiveness, and kindness to others.  Jesus showed mercy to all who mercy was not given by anyone at that time.  Jesus was counterculture and included everyone in God’s salvation work. Jesus reached down, walked in the dirt of humanity, to pull people up and out of their current condition to bring healing through forgiveness to their souls then to their physical, mental and emotional beings.  He did not judge to see if they were worthy enough before compassionately forgiving and restoring.  He merely probed to ask if He was what they truly wanted.  This is second requirement for we who say we believe with a desire to follow our Lord.
  • Walk humbly: Keep a close, intimate, revered relationship with God. Do not act proud. In fact, avoid all traits of behaviors that are the characteristics of the Enemy whose only goal is to distract, deceive, and deconstruct our faith in God.  Instead, daily and diligently develop all the character traits (fruits of the Holy Spirit) of God!  We have the power given to us by God to do what He says!  The more we walk and talk with God in relationship with Him; the more we become like Him.  Jesus demonstrated the character of God to all humanity while residing on earth.  “I only say and do what the Father tells me,” was Jesus mantra.

God’s focus: God cares more about how people live and treat others than about large religious gifts or sacrifices.  That is evident throughout His Word from Genesis to Revelation!  “Obedience is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22) God reminds Saul the King of Israel, through the mouth of Samuel the prophet priest, when Saul decided he could do a better work than God Himself!  King Saul lived to regret his pride as God’s spirit was taken from the king and place on the head of David the shepherd boy who became the King.

Throughout the Bible we read demonstrations of God’s powerful work through those who sought His wisdom and direction above all other things.  God blesses those whose hearts are completely committed to Him and who seek His wisdom beyond all other advisors or counselors.  God is God and we are not.  Seek God and His wisdom first before doing anything of significance for Him.  This is what the Psalmist seeks…

Psalm 119, The Message

(Part 4 of the ABC’s of Psalm 119)

ד Daleth

I’m feeling terrible—I couldn’t feel worse!
    Get me on my feet again. You promised, remember?
When I told my story, you responded;
    train me well in your deep wisdom.
Help me understand these things inside and out
    so I can ponder your miracle-wonders.
My sad life’s dilapidated, a falling-down barn;
    build me up again by your Word.
Barricade the road that goes Nowhere;
    grace me with your clear revelation.
I choose the true road to Somewhere,
    I post your road signs at every curve and corner.
I grasp and cling to whatever you tell me;
    God, don’t let me down!
I’ll run the course you lay out for me
    if you’ll just show me how.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

Notice that the previous section ended with the psalmist delighting in God’s Word, asking for Clarity with confidence; but in this next passage he is depressed and laying in the dust of despair! The enemy attacks us the hardest when we are enjoying the blessings of God.  Expect this to happen!

When things are going well and we “feel good,” it is dangerous to relax and lay aside the armor (Ephesians 6:10–18). “Guard your heart!” God’s word repeatedly warns us of the Enemy who “prowls around like a lion seeking to devour his prey”. (1 Peter 5:8)

I had a wise mentor who told me simply, and in this order to;

Know God personally, through Jesus, His Son who has won the victory over the Enemy.  Our battles are mere skirmishes until Jesus, who won the war, comes back again to claim His own and end what we face on earth now.

Know Yourself in relationship to God/Jesus/Holy Spirit.  Diligently daily offer ourselves to God as an offering as this is our spiritual act of worship to God! (Romans 12:1-2) Guard your heart with God’s holy act of purification through prayer and faith believing.

Know the Word Jesus knew the Word because He was the Word sent to combat the Enemy’s taunting and temptation.  This 40 days in the desert before beginning His ministry on earth solidified Jesus’ relationship with His Father, God and taught us how to combat God’s Enemy and ours in the best way—with Truth—God’s Word.

Know the Enemy and what he hates most—believers on their knees praying in the Name of Jesus who is the Victor.  He flees as we say the Name of Jesus in confidence, believing He is with us always!  The Enemy knows when we are tempted to walk alone and preys on those who do not seek God’s wisdom and help.  Expect him to cause trouble and be prepared for his acts of nasty.

So, when the Psalmist found himself down, the psalmist knew what to do—he prayed!

Do likewise!

Lord,

Thank you for the encouragement of Your Word that builds our faith as you purify our hearts.  Give us your wisdom for this day. Be in all the details of our lives on earth as you are in heaven.  Cleanse our hearts, remove all that does not belong and is not of You. Renew our minds until we think more like you in every way. Refresh our souls with your new tender mercies, and restore the joy and peace of your salvation at work within us.  To you be the glory! 

In Jesus Name, Amen!

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C IS FOR CLARITY

Posted on August 13, 2026 by randscallawayffm

(Part 3 of the ABC’s of Psalm 119)

A few months ago, we moved from the Midwest to the beautiful desert landscape of the Southwest.  We love it here as we acclimate to our new surroundings, culture, and people.  Changes had to made almost immediately in our thinking and in our habits in our new way of life.  Transitions had to made from the inside out and outside in for all things of life!  What we did before we do differently now.  We dress differently, rise early while it is cool to do outdoor chores, come inside when it is hot, or run errands only where there is air conditioning.  When we park; we seek shade trees.  Rest comes in the late afternoon as the dry heat builds; then walks are made as the sun goes down as God gifts us with the most incredible sunsets in the cool of the evening. 

We welcome the changes even when we don’t completely understand why because we know God led us here and with time we will understand more by living it.  We don’t always know all the reasons why God moves us, but we know He was in the move.  Could it be the neighbors next door who haven’t followed Him in a while needed neighbors who know God well and lean on His understanding to encourage them?  We seem to be a “mission in motion” as we testify of God’s great love and care for all who believe.  Our next-door neighbors are listening and we listen to them because they are the greatest and best information source for daily living in the southwest!  They have lived here for over forty years!  A love and respect for each other is forming daily in the  three months we have lived here.  We praise God for how He works in our lives!

Could it be the neighbors who go out of their way to welcome us to the community with open hearts, who know God is being used of God to encourage us? Yes!

Could it be the new church we are attending could use some helpers? Yes, again!

Only God knows what lies ahead. But one thing is for sure, God is with us and He is daily giving us clarity as He directs our path in this new land of which we are strangers as God leads us to be His agents of love, mercy, and grace.

Psalm 119, The Message

ג Gimel

Be generous with me and I’ll live a full life;
    not for a minute will I take my eyes off your road.
Open my eyes so I can see
    what you show me of your miracle-wonders.
I’m a stranger in these parts;
    give me clear directions.
My soul is starved and hungry, ravenous!—
    insatiable for your nourishing commands.
And those who think they know so much,
    ignoring everything you tell them—let them have it!
Don’t let them mock and humiliate me;
    I’ve been careful to do just what you said.
While bad neighbors maliciously gossip about me,
    I’m absorbed in pondering your wise counsel.
Yes, your sayings on life are what give me delight;
    I listen to them as to good neighbors!

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

I like how Max Lucado forms words of clarity for our understanding of this particular chorus of Psalm 119.  He comments;

“It’s clear that the psalmist had deep love and reverence for God’s Word. This entire passage elevates the Word of God over all other documents and statutes. No other book transforms, teaches, and guides like the Bible does.

God’s Word lights our path, enlightens our mind with truth, and deepens both our love for God and our understanding of his ways.

The key to spiritual growth is not increased church attendance or involvement in spiritual activities. People don’t grow in Christ because they are busy at church. They grow in Christ when they read and trust their Bibles.”—Lucado, Encouraging Word Bible

Want clarity for living?  —Seek God first, ask for wisdom and clarity, read His Word carefully and prayerfully and He will speak to our hearts in clear and concise ways.  I’ve seen it with my own eyes, felt His Presence, and heard Him speak as I seek to live what I learn from Him out loud. When all is said and done in Jesus Name, the enemy flees making room for God to move in our lives in ways beyond our wildest dreams and imaginations!  He is God and we are not. There is no one like our God!  Trust Him.  His promises are true; His Word is alive and active!  Join God as He invites into His work for His glory and our good.

“God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

Glory to God in the church!
Glory to God in the Messiah, in Jesus!
Glory down all the generations!
Glory through all millennia! Oh, yes!  Ephesians 3:20-21, MSG

Lord,

Thank you for all you have done, are doing and will do in my life.  I’m Yours.  I’m listening. Speak to my heart and direct my path as well as my thoughts, words, and actions.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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DO YOU KNOW YOUR ABC’S?

Posted on August 11, 2026 by randscallawayffm

The emphasis in this, the longest psalm, is on the vital ministry of the Word of God in the inner spiritual life of God’s children. It describes how the Word enables us to grow in holiness and handle the persecutions and pressures that always accompany an obedient walk of faith. The psalm is an acrostic with eight lines in each section, and the successive sections follow the letters of the Hebrew alphabet. Each of the eight lines of verses 1–8 begins with the Hebrew letter aleph, the lines in verses 9–16 begin with beth, in verses 17–24 with gimel, and so on.

The writer had an intense hunger for holiness and a passionate desire to understand God’s Word in a deeper way. In all but fourteen verses, he addresses his words to the Lord personally, so this psalm is basically a combination of worship, prayer, praise, and admonition. —Warren Wiersbe, Wiersbe Study Bible

We will take a section at a time to fully focus on God who directs our path and gives us all we need to know on a “need to know” basis.  Our focus is to have a heart that desires to seek justice, love mercy, as we walk humble with our God as the prophet Micah wrote as what God requires of us.  The Psalmist give us the ways to walk humbly with our God and it begins with worship of the One and Only God, our God who seeks a personal, intimate, growing relationship with us.  There is no one like our God!  Only He is God and we are not.  Trust Him.

Let us begin our A, B, C’s of growing and maturing in our walk with God…taking this long psalm in pieces!

Psalm 119, The Message

Aleph (First letter in the Hebrew alphabet)

1-8 You’re blessed when you stay on course,
    walking steadily on the road revealed by God.
You’re blessed when you follow his directions,
    doing your best to find him.
That’s right—you don’t go off on your own;
    you walk straight along the road he set.
You, God, prescribed the right way to live;
    now you expect us to live it.
Oh, that my steps might be steady,
    keeping to the course you set;
Then I’d never have any regrets
    in comparing my life with your counsel.
I thank you for speaking straight from your heart;
    I learn the pattern of your righteous ways.
I’m going to do what you tell me to do;
    don’t ever walk off and leave me.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

A—is for adoration of the one true God.  Stay the course with Him in the lead!  Don’t look away or we might stubble into pits of despair and hopelessness place in our path and covered over with branches of evil that look like but are not part of the path where God leads.  You know what I’m taking about, as we have all sinned and fallen for evil who distracts us with what looks good, almost like what Jesus taught, but with a twist of deceit meant to lead us away from Jesus who is the Way, Truth, and Life and eventually to death!  But evil cannot if we STAY THE COURSE!  Keep your eyes on the road of righteousness—all that is right and good for us and gives glory to God!  It begins with surrender to His will and getting self will out of the way.  Here’s how;

“So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.” –inspired by God, written down by Paul, Romans 12:1-2, MSG

Through surrender we will “walk steadily on the road God reveals to us” by His power and with His overcoming strength!

There are no regrets of a life counseled and lived in willing obedience with complete trust in God our Savior and Lord!

Lord,

Thank you for cleansing our hearts, renewing our mind, refreshing our souls with your new tender mercies for today. Thank you for this day that you have made. Thank you for continually restoring the joy and peace daily of your salvation at work within us to mature and lead us to be all you created us to be!  To you be all the glory, honor, and praise forever!  May we be your Light reflect from our being as we trust you.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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GOD’S LOVE NEVER QUITS, EVER!

Posted on August 10, 2026 by randscallawayffm

I heard a family member say more than one occasion, “He’s dead to me now because…” “She is a waist of skin in my life because…” Oh, the piercing words we say, either to people faces or behind their backs to others when we feel they have not met all the standards of our relationship. Most of all, how it must grieve the Holy Spirit when this is not what He is teaching us as truth in love. 

This seems to be a universal dysfunctional flaw in our relationships.  But it seems that only God can intervene to convict, correct, comfort, and compel us to be more like Jesus taught by His example while on earth.  But we must be willing participants. 

Jesus had enemies, enemies who gave false testimonies, He who knew no sin. Then they whipped His body with cords of metal spikes, mocked and spit on Him, all before the humiliation of being nailed to a cross and posted on a hill with thieves to be seen by all who passed by that busy weekend.  But, Jesus last prayer to God about them as He willingly and obediently hung there was, “Forgive them, Lord, for they know not what they are doing”.  THIS is the Love of God—unchangeable, unconditional, glorious, passionate, and never quits on humans created in His own image because He wants His best for each one!  To those who believe what He says; He redeems and gives the gift of eternal life.

So, join me, dear friends, to thank God with the Psalmist today.  To those who read this and believe the words written, join the chorus of the Psalmist singing, “God is Good—because His love never quits!!” 

Sing it all day long through good times and challenging times.

Sing it for those who God loves—EVERYone in the world!

Psalm 118, The Message


1-4 Thank God because he’s good,
    because his love never quits.
Tell the world, Israel,
    “His love never quits.”
And you, clan of Aaron, tell the world,
    “His love never quits.”
And you who fear God, join in,
    “His love never quits.”

5-16 Pushed to the wall, I called to God;
    from the wide open spaces, he answered.
God’s now at my side and I’m not afraid;
    who would dare lay a hand on me?
God’s my strong champion;
    I flick off my enemies like flies.
Far better to take refuge in God
    than trust in people;
Far better to take refuge in God
    than trust in celebrities.
Hemmed in by barbarians,
    in God’s name I rubbed their faces in the dirt;
Hemmed in and with no way out,
    in God’s name I rubbed their faces in the dirt;
Like swarming bees, like wild prairie fire, they hemmed me in;
    in God’s name I rubbed their faces in the dirt.
I was right on the cliff-edge, ready to fall,
    when God grabbed and held me.


God’s my strength, he’s also my song,
    and now he’s my salvation.
Hear the shouts, hear the triumph songs
    in the camp of the saved?
        “The hand of God has turned the tide!
        The hand of God is raised in victory!
        The hand of God has turned the tide!”

17-20 I didn’t die. I lived!
    And now I’m telling the world what God did.
God tested me, he pushed me hard,
    but he didn’t hand me over to Death.
Swing wide the city gates—the righteous gates!
    I’ll walk right through and thank God!
This Temple Gate belongs to God,
    so the victors can enter and praise.

21-25 Thank you for responding to me;
    you’ve truly become my salvation!
The stone the masons discarded as flawed
    is now the capstone!
This is God’s work.
    We rub our eyes—we can hardly believe it!
This is the very day God acted—
    let’s celebrate and be festive!
Salvation now, God. Salvation now!
    Oh yes, God—a free and full life!

26-29 Blessed are you who enter in God’s name—
    from God’s house we bless you!
God is God,
    he has bathed us in light.
Adorn the shrine with garlands,
    hang colored banners above the altar!
You’re my God, and I thank you.
    O my God, I lift high your praise.
Thank God—he’s so good.
    His love never quits!

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

God will take care of the enemies who press in hard with hate filled words of attack. Our response is to pray God’s best for them so they can join the song of God’s love that never quits on all who receive Him.  Wait, what?!  Yes, Jesus said in His “you have heard it said, but I say to you” sermons on the mountain top to clear up any misconceptions of what God desires of us! 

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?” –Jesus, Matthew 5:43-47 

Mm, even the pagans can be “church” nice…with no love in their hearts…are we like that? (Sometimes…)

But wait, there’s more…

“Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.  You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” Paul, Philippians 2:1-5, NLT

“Shine like stars” Paul continues to teach to divisive churches trying to figure out how to live for Christ by following His example.  Isn’t that still our goal for today—to be like Christ?  Paul and others encourage believers to build each other up; refrain from knocking each other down.  “But you don’t know how deeply they have wronged me,” we whine as we share with others, hoping for pity and justice for ourselves.

Paul responds; 

“Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.  Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. Hold firmly to the word of life…” Philippians 2:12-16a

God knows our story so the replays we tell to others is not only unhealthy, the grumbling and complaining only brings on more critical judgement.  God cares—about both the offended and offender.  It is HIS desire the no one perish but all be saved by grace in Jesus Name—because of HIS LOVE!

Pray for each other, is not just a poster to put up but a discipline to live!  Jesus commanded to pray especially our enemies and to go the “extra mile” for them!  Why? I think it is a great opportunity to show them what Jesus would do in these situations. 

All glory to God for His love never quits—even for our enemies!  I have discovered in my own life that the more I pray for those who slander and accuse me; the less I fall for the same evil tendencies that were dished out to me of fear, tension, and hate in the relationship.

In prayer we gain the power of God who is Love.  Only With God’s love in us can we declare that there is nothing the offender can say that will ever stop our love for them.

Our faith in God who never quits in His love, expects us to love with His love in us. That means our love never quits or gives up of friends and family members who have given up their love for us.  So since God never quits, to be like Him; we never quit.

God knows what we need when we need Him most. His Holy Spirit will guide, counsel, convict, correct, comfort and compel us with resurrection power within us to love everyone with God’s love that never quits!  This is the response that makes God smile.

Lord,

I pray for the day when all who believe, surrender to your will, and come alive in Christ will bow down to worship you with all that is in us all over the world.  May all nations bow down to You and sing from our hearts;

You’re my God, and I thank you.
    O my God, I lift high your praise.
Thank God—he’s so good.
    His love never quits!

Thank you, dear Jesus, for your example of perfect Love expressed as a demonstration of a God who never gives up on us.

In Jesus Name, Amen

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